A trusted air conditioner is one of the most important parts of your home comfort system, especially when you live in Sarasota Over its life span, even the best air conditioner is likely to break or malfunction.

The cost of repairs will depend on the scope and severity of the problem. Let’s review some of the most common air conditioning repair services and the average estimated costs1 to repair them.

1. Air Filter

The air filter is a crucial component for your cooling system. It sucks in dust and other debris, stopping it from drifting into your HVAC ductwork. Replacing or cleaning the filter is quick and easy. Most of the time you can take care of it without the help of a trained HVAC technician.

Disposable filters are most common. Depending on the brand you use, it can be a few dollars for a flat filter or around $20 for a pleated filter. If you have a washable filter, the only cost is the water and labor it takes to clean it.

For the most part, your filter should be changed every month to three months. If you don’t swap it out frequently, your air conditioner will have to work longer to sustain the set temperature. This can increase your monthly cooling bills.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat is how you communicate with your air conditioner. If something is wrong with the thermostat, you may think there’s a problem with the air conditioning itself. Sometimes repairing the issue is as basic as adjusting the settings.

If this doesn’t handle the problem, an HVAC technician from Airtech Cooling & Heating can help. The cost of replacing your thermostat will start with the model you choose. Smart models come with additional features and can help you save money in the long run. Swapping out your thermostat starts around $75, depending on hardware and labor.

3. Coolant Leak

Refrigerant is an integral part of your air conditioner because it absorbs heat out of your home. If it’s leaking costs can include both repairing the leak and replacing any lost refrigerant.

Typically, refreshing your supply of coolant runs between $100 to $350, but this number might be higher if your air conditioner is more powerful or uses R-22. Also known as Freon, R-22 is no longer produced due to its effect on the ozone layer. Only recycled quantities are available, making it more expensive.

If your air conditioner uses R-22, has a leak or is getting older, your technician may recommend our air conditioning installation in Sarasota. We also serve local communities.

4. Damaged Electrical Components

Electrical components consist of the circuit board, as well as breakers and fuses. Damage or malfunctions can hamper a large variety of air conditioning systems like the motor, compressor or AC contractor.

Most electrical components cost around $75–$290 to repair or replace. The circuit board is more important and replacing it can be between $125–$625. Your Airtech Cooling & Heating technician will take a look at these parts across the diagnosis to find out if they’re the reason other parts can’t function normally.

5. Evaporator and Condenser Coils

Most air conditioners have two coils. The evaporator coil contains the refrigerant and takes in the heat from surrounding air. Replacing this component costs between $675–$1,300.

The condenser coil condenses the coolant into liquid before diffusing the heat outdoors. Replacement costs are often around $581 or higher, depending on your brand of air conditioner.

6. Problems with Drain Lines

If your air conditioner is struggling with drainage problems, costs may include both water damage as well the repair or replacement of damaged parts. Affected systems may include:

  • Drain pan, which collects, and drains condensed water. Replacement: $250–$575
  • Condensate drain tube, which drains the drain pan. Replacement: $100–$195.
  • The drain line, which may need to be flushed of mold, mildew or clogs. Service cost: $75–$250.

7. Damage to the Ventilation

Without your air ducts, cool air cannot move across your home. Cracks and leaks will need to be taken care of to keep your cooling bills from getting bigger. Repairs most often cost between $300–$500. Installing new ductwork is more expensive but may offer greatly increased energy efficiency. This cost depends on the size of your home but generally runs several thousand dollars.

8. Emergency Support and Tune-Ups

The other potential costs of a service call are dependent on your location and local demand. It’s typically within $70–$200, which includes travel and basic diagnostics. Other key aspects include labor and parts, which are often flat rates. Labor might run between $70–$130 per hour.

Emergency services are frequently more expensive, but worth it to lower the risk of interruptions to your comfort. An average emergency call may be around $315 for night, weekend or holiday visits.

Professional air conditioning maintenance runs anywhere from $85 to $110. Signing up for a yearly maintenance plan is usually less expensive, with an average flat cost of $150 for two visits. Our service plan is an outstanding value, because we can uncover and handle problems promptly and inexpensively. This service might also decrease your likelihood of malfunctions and breakdowns.

Should I Repair or Replace My Air Conditioner?

Our friendly, knowledgeable technicians will offer detailed information about your cooling system. In many cases, providing info you’ve learned beforehand will help us identify the source of the problem.

Common signs you need air conditioning repairs include:

  • Unpleasant or loud noises. Listen for hissing, clanging or gurgling sounds.
  • Warm air or poor circulation. Electrical failure keeps cooling systems from working, while an obstruction in your ductwork reduces airflow. This can also be a result of a dirty air filter.
  • Short cycling or inconsistent operation. Frequent starting and stopping adds extra strain on your air conditioner. This is often caused by a dirty air filter.
  • Higher utility bills. Inefficient components or clogs force your air conditioner to work harder. Watch your monthly bills for sudden changes.

If your repair bill is more than $1,500, it may be a smarter option to schedule air conditioning installation instead. A new air conditioner is more energy efficient, which can save you money on cooling bills in the long run.

Your Airtech Cooling & Heating technician will help you determine the right choice. Since 1991, we’ve been known for our honest, high-quality air conditioning repair in Sarasota and devotion to outstanding customer service. Schedule your appointment by calling us at 941-377-7956 today!

1Average air conditioning repair costs are sourced from 2020 HomeGuide estimates, which are based off nationwide averages. Your exact cost may vary.